Bandar Al Khayran

بندر الخيران

A protected coastal reserve of turquoise coves, mangroves and rugged islets southeast of the city. It is a favourite for snorkelling, kayaking and boat trips.

Things to do

• Snorkelling the coral coves — Explore vibrant coral gardens and shoals of fish in the sheltered turquoise inlets that make Bandar Al Khayran famous.
• Kayak through the mangroves — Paddle quietly among the mangrove channels and hidden lagoons that shelter herons, crabs and juvenile fish.
• Boat trip from Marina Bandar Al Rowdha — Charter a dhow or speedboat from the marina to reach the reserve's remote coves and islets.
• Swim at the Bandar Khayran lagoon — Float in the calm, warm shallow waters ringed by rugged limestone cliffs and rocky islets.
• Diving on the Al Munassir wreck — Dive the deliberately sunk former naval vessel nearby, now an artificial reef teeming with marine life.
• Sunset photography from the headlands — Capture the golden light over the fjord-like inlets and jagged rock formations at day's end.
• Turtle and dolphin spotting — Watch for green and hawksbill turtles surfacing and pods of dolphins escorting boats near the reserve.

Food to try

• Fresh grilled hammour — Sample locally caught grouper grilled or fried, often served on picnic boats or at Muttrah seafood stalls.
• Omani shuwa — Try slow-cooked spiced lamb wrapped in banana leaves, a celebratory dish best sought in Muscat before or after a trip.
• Mashuai — A whole spit-roasted kingfish served over lemon rice, a classic coastal Omani seafood dish.
• Kahwa and dates — Enjoy cardamom-spiced Omani coffee with fresh dates, a traditional welcome often offered on boat tours.
• Harees — A comforting porridge of wheat and slow-cooked meat, widely eaten across Muscat and worth trying nearby.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect the marine reserve rules — Do not touch or remove coral, shells or marine life, and avoid anchoring on reefs as this is a protected area.
• Dress modestly on and off the water — Wear swimwear only in the water and cover up when passing fishing villages or boarding boats in Oman's conservative culture.
• Bring your own supplies — There are no shops or facilities in the reserve, so carry water, food, sun protection and carry out all your rubbish.
• Book through licensed operators — Use registered tour companies from Marina Bandar Al Rowdha, as some coves may require permits and local guidance.

Nearby

• Al Bustan Palace Area — 7 km
• Al Jalali and Al Mirani Forts — 15 km
• Old Muscat — 15 km
• National Museum of Oman — 15 km